The point of no return. The name the people of Benin call the place off the coast line where their ancestors were forced onto "big white ships" never to return again. Slave ships. It is here they were lined by the hundreds, their naked bodies shackled and chained together. Many were beaten to comply or beheaded. The lucky ones jumped into the sea to their death. These ships were overcrowded and many starved to death.
The slave trade boosted the economy of Benin. Ironic. The very same act that caused such desolation and/or death to many, led to the wealth of the nation. Survival of the nation depended on this one export. The export of her people into slavery! (until it was later abolished in the early 1800's)
At the top of the tall arch, symbolizing "the passage," are carved slaves chained way too close together. The monument in honor of all those who never returned is the shape of Benin, a keyhole. You may be able to see the inscribed references to Scripture.
Some places I will never forget.
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4 comments:
How powerful and moving to see.
Hannah, I have so enjoyed following your blog of your experiences working on Mercy Ship. I am embarrassed to say that before your blog, I had never even heard of Benin before. I had to google map it. There are so many people all over the world, but God loves each and every one of them, and knows them personally; most of all, He desires that NOT ONE of them should perish into eternal damnation, but that they should be in glory with Him forever. Thank you so much for all that you are doing to reach the unreached, and especially the "untouchables."
Love to you,
Heather Clinesmith
Wow, I am sure you will never forget it! May we all never forget it. May God be glorified and all slavery in the world be brought to an end. Thank you so much for sharing this, it is so heart wrenching!!!!!!
Tim and Hannah, I love reading your blog and experiencing Benin alongside you. Keep on! Praying for you. - Mike
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